A certified arborist knows how each species of tree responds to tree trimming because they have studied how to optimize the health of trees through judicious pruning. A tree trimmer is also aware of the best time to prune.
Tree pruning is much more than sawing off unwanted limbs and branches. It is recommended for improving the crown, like cleaning it out, elevating it and reducing it. Other reasons for trimming include vista pruning, ball moss removal, insect-infestation and disease removal.
Trimming the Tree’s Crown
Cleaning out the crown involves removing branches from the canopy that are weak, crossing over, or rotting and dying.
Elevating the crown means removing lower limbs that obstruct windows in buildings and homes, or hovering over walkways or driveways.
Finally, reducing the crown is the last resort to preventing tree removal. It may be necessary, if, for example, the tree is near an electrical line. Crown reduction involves pruning back limbs or branches to reduce the height or width of the tree.
Other Considerations To Watch For When Trimming Your Trees
Apart from altering the crown, tree trimming may be necessary to improve the view, remove ball moss, or save the tree from insect infestation or disease.
Vista pruning is recommended for a home owner if the tree branches block a scenic view, like overlooking a lake. It is also recommended for commercial property managers whose business signs have been obscured by tree branches.
Ball Moss removal is necessary should a tree become infected with ball moss. Ball moss starts by killing smaller branches by obstructing sunlight. Eventually, if left unchecked, it can cause bigger branches to die, also.
Insect-infestation and disease management are also reasons to remove infected branches should spraying not work. Trees can suffer from aphids, oak leaf caterpillars and pecan webworms. They can also suffer from oak wilt and fungal problems.